Overview
This lecture explains Android App Bundles as the required publishing format for new apps on Google Play, including benefits, size restrictions, and related delivery mechanisms.
Introduction to Android App Bundles
- Android App Bundle is a publishing format containing all compiled code and resources.
- Google Play uses the bundle to generate and serve optimized APKs for each device.
- Publishing with App Bundles is mandatory for new apps since August 2021 and for new/existing TV apps since June 2023.
- Users download only the code and resources needed for their specific device, resulting in smaller, optimized installs.
Benefits and Features
- App Bundles eliminate the need to manage multiple APKs for device optimization.
- Most projects require minimal changes if already organized using Android conventions.
- Optional integration with Play Feature Delivery allows modular features delivered at install or on-demand.
- Game developers can use Play Asset Delivery for efficient delivery of large assets.
Compressed Download Size Restriction
- The total compressed APKs for initial installation must not exceed 4 GB.
- On-demand feature downloads must also adhere to the 4 GB compressed limit.
- Asset packs have separate size limits and do not count towards this main limit.
- Android App Bundles do not support APK expansion files (
.obb).
Reducing App Size and Optimization
- Enable all configuration APKs to ensure only required resources are downloaded.
- Use code shrinking tools to remove unused code and resources.
- Convert rarely used features to feature modules for on-demand delivery.
- Follow best practices to minimize app size.
Known Issues and Considerations
- Sideloading partial installs (missing required split APKs) fails on certified devices and Android 10+.
- Tools that dynamically modify resource tables may cause issues with app bundle APKs.
- Conflicting build configurations between base and feature modules can cause build/runtime errors.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Android App Bundle — A publishing format used to deliver optimized APKs to different device configurations.
- APK — Android Application Package; the installable file format for Android apps.
- Play Feature Delivery — A system for modularizing app features and resources delivered on demand.
- Play Asset Delivery — A solution for serving large game assets efficiently.
- Configuration APKs — APKs generated for specific device configurations to reduce download size.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review and follow best practices for reducing app size.
- Consider refactoring your app for dynamic feature modules if applicable.
- Explore additional resources and videos to deepen understanding of Android App Bundles.